Most first tier classes are proficient with one weapon type. Some promoted classes have access to two or three types. There are a few exceptions, for non-combat classes, such as bards and dancers, who can't wield any weapons at all. Also, manaketes cannot wield any weapon other than dragonstones. If a weapon without a weapon type is obtained (this can be done through hacks) like some of the magic that Gorgons from Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones use, anyone can use it.

Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance featured Swords, Lances, Axes, Bows, Staves, Fire, Thunder, Wind, Light and Knives as weapon types. A Weapon triangle and Trinity of Magic were featured. Light magic however was neutral to the trinity of magic, could only be used by units with the Lumina skill (exclusive to Bishops), and shared its weapon rank with Staves. Knives lacked a weapon rank, could only be used by units with the Knife skill (Thieves, Assassins and some Sages), and were listed under swords in the Supply Convoy. The game also features Strikes that could only be used by Laguz, although they weren't named as such, and lacked a weapon rank.

Fire Emblem: Radiant Dawn featured the same weapon types as Path of Radiance, but also reintroduced Dark magic, gave Light and Knives their own weapon ranks, and formally introduced the Strike weapon type. It also added a new weapon rank: SS, and featured a double trinity of magic.